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Psyllium is one of the safest, gentlest laxatives that have been used for centuries as an herbal remedy. In addition, modern research shows that psyllium seed has a remarkable ability to reduce cholesterol. This makes the herb beneficial in preventing heart disease and many strokes. Traditional Chinese doctors have used the seeds and leaves of psyllium to treat diarrhea, hemorrhoids, constipation, urinary problems, and high blood pressure. Psyllium Uses Up to 30% of psyllium’s seed is made up of soluble fiber. When it comes in contact with water, psyllium swells to more than ten times its original size. This is one of the secrets to its effectiveness. Psyllium absorbs excess fluid in the intestinal tract and helps restore normal bulk to stool. This makes psyllium a great herbal remedy for diarrhea.
Psyllium’s bulk-forming properties increases stool volume. Larger stools press on the colon wall triggering the wavelike contractions that we recognize as the urge to go. As stool gains bulk, it also becomes softer and is easier to pass. This alleviates constipation form a low fiber diet. Psyllium is usually the main ingredient in most laxatives like Metamucil, and Fiberall. Hemorrhoids are also helped with softened stool. Psyllium brings relief from the pain and bleeding of hemorrhoids. While oat bran has received much of the credit, any dietary fiber helps pull cholesterol out of the blood stream so it doesn’t end up narrowing artery walls and increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Many studies show that as the dietary fiber increases, risk for heart disease decreases. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that psyllium could reduce total cholesterol by about 5% in 12 weeks, which means a 10% decrease in heart attack risk. Colon cancer incidence can be reduced with psyllium. Since it bulks up the stool, toxic food additives have less direct contact with sensitive intestinal tissue. Even though there are no studies to back this theory, the American Cancer Society recommends a high fiber diet to reduce the risk.
Psyllium, like other dietary fibers, reduces blood sugar levels, which suggests a possible role in diabetes management. Psyllium Recommended Dosage Most studies show that a teaspoon or two of psyllium three times a day a long with plenty of water usually produces significant relief from constipation and other intestinal issues. Psyllium Safety Psyllium is generally safe as long as it is taken in conjunction with plenty of fluids. Water is best taken with psyllium, but juice will work as well. If you don’t drink fluids with the fiber, it may clog your intestines and require surgery. It’s a good way to make sure you’re getting enough water everyday too, so take your fiber with water.
Since psyllium shows no side effects, it makes it the safest cholesterol reducer on the market. Perhaps you could consider switching off your prescription drugs to lower cholesterol for a dietary fiber option instead. Make sure to speak to your doctor before doing this since he or she will help wean you off the drugs slowly.
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